Visions

Not the kind that happen under the influence, or during deep meditation, or from heat exhaustion ... I'm thinking about my recent experiences developing relationships with community leaders and brainstorming how to make the "center" I'm working for, Peace Village of Las Cruces, blossom.  I've only ever worked with established organizations.  And while Peace Camp, a program run by Peace Village, is fully functional and well supported, Peace Village exists more or less as a vision -- which an evolving network of visionary types is trying to create, in flesh and bone.

This is one of the most exciting projects I've been a part of.  To try to mid-wife something into being -- this metaphor works for us, helps us keep the process in perspective. I don't feel like going into the details of precisely what we're hoping to do, at least not with this post.  It's late.  Tomorrow we're headed for El Paso  to observe the International Day of Peace.  A global "action" is taking place along the border, which we're pretty pumped to help pull off; something about weaving a poster or image cut into strips through a stretch of chain-linked fence.  Returning to the topic ... the word that comes to mind for me right now is fit, maybe flow.  Things seem to be flowing beautifully for me: My work, or, my service; my community, my marriage; my health; my spiritual practice.  Through work I'm able to meet and collaborate with a variety of people.  I'm developing close professional and personal relationships, often with the same people.  I get to ride my bike all over Las Cruces to spend time with folks I plan to partner with on programs centered on the theories and practices of peacemaking.  Every day I enjoy several moments of deep admiration for the awesomeness of the Organ mountains.  The high desert air is fresh, cool now.  The pace of life is sloooooow, which I cherish.  I'm starting a more formal practice of meditation with a local sangha.  The roshi, or priest, is a kind, insightful, and refreshingly genuine man.  I feel at home just being around him.  He helps me see the clarity in simply being present.

Ahhh, there's much more to say.  Is this an occasion for another (unconventional) haiku?

Soto Zen

Looking at the wall
Practice: thinking not-thinking
The image of a troll staring back at me.